From the beginning of time, people have learnt of the past through tales that were told from those who witnessed events and those who claim they did. It is often said that History is told from the eyes of the victors.
These victors tell tales of a culture that once was from their own perspective; so as to pass on certain beliefs, ideals and values from one generation to the next.
America has entrenched itself in the eyes of the world as not only the world’s superpower but as the greatest nation on earth. The use of icons in the form of superheroes were an essential tool in achieving the above stated effect.
Superman the world’s first superhero, appeared to be an advocate for social justice for individuals victimized for social factors beyond their control at the time were America was facing depression.
While Batman was created at a time in American history where the great depression called for heroes who could set the example by showing how to solve the biggest problems in times of crisis and thus demonstrated how to cope with difficult situations.
It is amazing how the effect of these “American Icons” still hold sway till this day. I would argue that one in 3 people know who Superman and Batman are and would embody these characters to symbolise strength, grit and hope.
What most people do not know is that these extremely popular icons all wear the colours of the American flag.
These icons have been so entrenched in us that the words Superman or Wonder Woman symbolise strength which inevitably says you are my American icon.
Africa is full of icons who have fought for not only our survival as a people but for our very way of life; yet, we have not embraced this ancient but effective way of communicating through the concept of superheroes to pass on beliefs and shape our perception.
I hear people say these children of nowadays! Nigeria has no hope, the youths are lazy and our country is corrupt!
We must understand that who we are today is a complete combination of thoughts, traditions, lessons that have been passed down and we have been exposed to.
My question is when and how do we cause correct?
I say that it is time we create icons for the generation that is coming, creating heroes that will not only show us the right thing to do but will also shape and influence their thoughts and decisions in other for them to live better lives.
It is time for the AFRICAN SUPERHEROES.
It is time that we not only show the world what we are capable of but to teach the next generation who they can be. Remembering that the only limit there is, is us.
If not now, then when?